The effectiveness of obstetric gel application in shortening labor duration and preserving vaginal perineal integrity: prospective observational study

Aim: The aim of this study to determine the effects of obstetric gel application on labor outcomes. Materials and Method: This nonrandomized controlled study was carried out between January 2019 and June 2019 in a tertiary-care hospital. Nulliparous pregnant women with low risk, vertex position, between the ages of 16-40 years, with an estimated fetal weight of 2500-4000 grams and a gestational week between 37-41 weeks were included in the study. Using an applicator, 3-5 ml of a hydroxyethyl cellulose gel was applied to the vaginal canal of the study group (n=142) at the first stage of labor (before 5 cm cervical opening). The procedure was repeated every two hours until the birth of the baby. The control group (n=191) received standard antenatal care. Results: The need for episiotomy was significantly lower in the study group compared to the control group (n=72 (50.7%) vs. n=175 (91.6%)) (Z=18.902, p